By Shelley Hubal

It was only a short visit, but I noticed a few subtle indications that things were different this summer. Large posters with the distinctive “Bring Them Home Now” slogan hung outside the camp office. Israeli flags were flying all over the camp. Many of the campers and counselors wore what looked like dog tags, but I immediately recognized them as “Bring Them Home Now” tags. These are some observations from my recent visit to Camp Ramah New England. 

While we walked around the camp on visitor’s day, my son, Joshua, shared a prayer for peace that he learned. Turns out, the camp has added this to the daily service. I learned that the camp held a special shira, or singing session, in honor of the hostages as another opportunity to thoughtfully hold a safe space for this young generation of Jewish people to grieve, heal and take pride in their heritage. 

August 2 will mark 300 days of captivity for the hostages in Gaza. As of right now, there are no real prospects for a ceasefire and hostage deal. If, like me, you are hurting, then I encourage you to join our gathering for peace on August 8. There will be song, prayer and a special reading of the names of the hostages. We will also listen to the testimony of Eitan and Varda Morell, parents of Moaz Morell, who courageously gave his life for the love of his country and the Jewish people. For more information on the program, see the article on page 1.

I recognize that many in our Jewish community are beyond their summer camp days. Perhaps that is why creating a special opportunity to come together and share our grief and faith is so important. It will help us to heal our hearts and remind us that we are all in this together. I know that is good for everyone, not just a few lucky youths.